A trigger assembly, for use with a power tool having an electric motor, includes a trigger, a conductor coupled for movement with the trigger, and a printed circuit board. The printed circuit board has an inductive sensor thereon responsive to relative movement between the conductor and the inductive sensor caused by movement of the trigger. An output of the inductive sensor is used to activate the electric motor.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A trigger assembly for use with a power tool having an electric motor, the trigger assembly comprising: a trigger; a first conductor coupled for movement with the trigger; a second conductor coupled for movement with the trigger; and a printed circuit board including first inductive sensor thereon responsive to relative movement between the first conductor and the first inductive sensor caused by movement of the trigger, and a second inductive sensor thereon responsive to relative movement between the second conductor and the second inductive sensor caused by movement of the trigger, wherein a first output of the first inductive sensor is used to activate the electric motor, and wherein a second output of the second inductive sensor is used to activate the electric motor.
This invention relates to a trigger assembly for power tools with electric motors, addressing the need for precise and reliable motor activation control. The assembly includes a trigger mechanism with two conductive elements that move in response to trigger actuation. A printed circuit board (PCB) houses two inductive sensors positioned to detect the movement of these conductive elements. The first inductive sensor generates an output signal based on the relative movement between the first conductive element and the sensor, while the second inductive sensor generates a separate output signal based on the movement of the second conductive element. Both sensor outputs are used to activate the electric motor, ensuring redundant control for enhanced safety and reliability. The inductive sensing method provides accurate position feedback without physical contact, reducing wear and improving durability. This design is particularly useful in power tools where precise motor control and fail-safe operation are critical. The assembly may also include additional components, such as a housing or mounting brackets, to integrate the trigger mechanism with the power tool. The use of inductive sensors allows for non-contact detection, minimizing mechanical friction and extending the lifespan of the trigger assembly.
2. The trigger assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first output of the first inductive sensor is used to activate the electric motor in a first rotational direction, and wherein the second output of the second inductive sensor is used to activate the electric motor in a second rotational direction that is different than the first rotational direction.
This invention relates to a trigger assembly for controlling the rotational direction of an electric motor using inductive sensors. The assembly addresses the need for precise and reliable motor direction control in applications where mechanical switches or other traditional methods may be impractical or insufficiently responsive. The trigger assembly includes at least two inductive sensors positioned to detect the presence or movement of a trigger or actuator. The first inductive sensor generates a first output signal when the trigger is moved in a first direction, which activates the electric motor to rotate in a first rotational direction. The second inductive sensor generates a second output signal when the trigger is moved in a second direction, activating the motor to rotate in a second, opposite direction. The inductive sensors provide non-contact detection, improving durability and reducing wear compared to mechanical switches. The system may also include additional sensors or logic to ensure accurate direction control and prevent unintended activation. The assembly is particularly useful in tools or devices where bidirectional motor control is required, such as power drills, robotic arms, or automated systems. The use of inductive sensors enhances reliability in environments with dust, moisture, or other contaminants that could interfere with mechanical or optical sensors. The design ensures that motor direction changes are responsive and precise, improving overall system performance.
3. A power tool comprising: an electric motor; a controller in electrical communication with the motor to activate and deactivate the motor; a trigger; a conductor coupled for movement with the trigger; and a printed circuit board having an inductive sensor thereon responsive to relative movement between the conductor and the inductive sensor caused by movement of the trigger; wherein an output of the inductive sensor is detected by the controller, which in response activates or deactivates the electric motor; and wherein the inductive sensor is a coil trace having a proximal end located proximate the trigger and a distal end, and wherein the distal end has a different winding density than the proximal end.
A power tool includes an electric motor and a controller that activates and deactivates the motor. The tool has a trigger mechanically coupled to a conductor, which moves in response to trigger actuation. A printed circuit board with an inductive sensor detects the relative movement between the conductor and the sensor. The sensor output is processed by the controller to control the motor's operation. The inductive sensor is a coil trace with a proximal end near the trigger and a distal end, where the distal end has a different winding density than the proximal end. This design allows for precise detection of trigger movement, enabling accurate motor control. The varying winding density in the coil trace enhances sensitivity and resolution in detecting trigger position, improving the tool's responsiveness and control. The inductive sensor provides a non-contact method of sensing trigger movement, reducing wear and improving reliability compared to mechanical or optical sensors. The system ensures efficient and precise motor activation based on trigger input, enhancing user control and tool performance.
4. The power tool of claim 3 , wherein, in response to the conductor moving away from the proximal end of the inductive sensor and towards the distal end, a rotational speed of the motor is accelerated by the controller, and wherein, in response to the conductor moving away from the distal end of the inductive sensor and towards the proximal end, the rotational speed of the motor is decelerated by the controller.
A power tool system includes a motor, an inductive sensor, and a controller. The inductive sensor detects the position of a conductive element, such as a user's hand or a tool component, relative to its proximal and distal ends. The controller adjusts the motor's rotational speed based on the detected position. When the conductive element moves away from the proximal end and toward the distal end of the sensor, the controller increases the motor's speed. Conversely, when the conductive element moves away from the distal end and toward the proximal end, the controller reduces the motor's speed. This allows for intuitive speed control by adjusting the position of the conductive element relative to the sensor. The system may also include a housing for the motor and sensor, and the inductive sensor may be positioned to detect movement in a specific direction, such as along a linear path. The controller processes the sensor's output to determine the direction and magnitude of movement, enabling precise speed adjustments. This design provides a hands-free or gesture-based method for controlling power tool speed, improving usability and safety.
5. The power tool of claim 4 , further comprising a spring biasing the trigger toward a neutral position in which the conductor is closer to the proximal end than the distal end.
A power tool includes a housing with a proximal end and a distal end, a motor, a trigger, and a conductor. The trigger is movable between a neutral position and an actuated position to control the motor. The conductor is electrically connected to the trigger and is movable with the trigger. The conductor has a proximal end and a distal end, where the proximal end is closer to the motor than the distal end. The tool further includes a spring that biases the trigger toward the neutral position, ensuring the conductor remains closer to the proximal end than the distal end when the trigger is not actuated. This design helps maintain a default safe state, preventing unintended motor activation. The spring provides a return force to the trigger, enhancing user control and safety. The conductor's positioning ensures proper electrical contact and reliable motor operation. The tool may also include additional features such as a handle, a battery compartment, or a gear mechanism to adjust motor speed or torque. The spring's biasing action ensures consistent trigger response and reduces wear on the trigger mechanism. This configuration is particularly useful in handheld power tools where user safety and precise control are critical.
6. The power tool of claim 5 , wherein the conductor is a first conductor, the coil trace is a first coil trace, and the output is a first output detected by the controller to activate the motor in a first rotational direction, and wherein the power tool further comprises a second conductor coupled for movement with the trigger, and a second inductive sensor configured as a second coil trace on the printed circuit board having a proximal end located proximate the trigger and a distal end, wherein the distal end of the second coil trace has a different winding density than the proximal end of the second coil trace, wherein the second inductive sensor is responsive to relative movement between the second conductor and the second inductive sensor caused by movement of the trigger, and wherein a second output of the second inductive sensor is detected by the controller, which in response activates the motor in a second rotational direction that is different than the first rotational direction, wherein, in response to the second conductor moving away from the proximal end of the second coil trace and towards the distal end of the second coil trace, a rotational speed of the electric motor is accelerated by the controller, and wherein in response to the second conductor moving away from the distal end of the second coil trace and towards the proximal end of the second coil trace, the rotational speed of the motor is decelerated by the controller.
This invention relates to a power tool with an inductive sensing system for controlling motor direction and speed based on trigger movement. The system includes a printed circuit board with two inductive sensors, each configured as coil traces with varying winding densities along their length. Each sensor interacts with a conductor coupled to the trigger, allowing the controller to detect trigger position and movement. The first sensor activates the motor in a first rotational direction, while the second sensor controls motor speed by adjusting rotational speed based on the conductor's position along the coil trace. When the conductor moves toward the distal end of the second coil trace, the controller accelerates the motor, and when it moves toward the proximal end, the controller decelerates the motor. The varying winding density ensures precise speed control. This design enables bidirectional motor operation and variable speed adjustment through trigger movement, improving user control and tool functionality. The inductive sensing system provides a robust, contactless method for detecting trigger position and movement, enhancing reliability and durability in power tool applications.
7. The power tool of claim 3 , further comprising: a sensor unit in communication with the controller; and a reference clock configured to provide a reference frequency signal to the sensor unit that is indicative of a reference frequency of the reference clock, wherein the output of the inductive sensor is a sensor frequency signal indicative of a sensor frequency of the inductive sensor, wherein the sensor frequency of the inductive sensor is configured to change based on relative movement between the conductor and the inductive sensor, wherein the sensor unit is configured to receive the sensor frequency signal from the inductive sensor and output a ratio signal to the controller, which is a ratio of the sensor frequency to the reference frequency, and wherein the controller activates or deactivates the motor based upon the ratio signal.
This invention relates to power tools equipped with inductive sensors for detecting relative movement between a conductor and the sensor, enabling precise control of the tool's motor. The system addresses the challenge of accurately monitoring movement in power tools to enhance safety and performance. The power tool includes a motor, a controller, and an inductive sensor positioned near a conductor. The inductive sensor generates a sensor frequency signal that varies with relative movement between the conductor and the sensor. A reference clock provides a stable reference frequency signal to a sensor unit, which compares the sensor frequency to the reference frequency and outputs a ratio signal to the controller. The controller uses this ratio to determine the relative movement and activates or deactivates the motor accordingly. This ensures the motor operates only when the tool is in the correct position, improving safety and efficiency. The system may also include additional features such as a housing for the inductive sensor and a power source for the motor. The inductive sensor's output is directly influenced by the relative movement, allowing for real-time adjustments to the motor's operation. This design is particularly useful in applications where precise control of the tool's movement is critical.
8. The power tool of claim 7 , wherein the controller is configured to activate the motor in one of a first rotational direction or an opposite, second rotational direction in response to a change in the first ratio signal.
A power tool includes a motor, a sensor, and a controller. The sensor detects a rotational speed of a tool component, such as a spindle or gear, and generates a first ratio signal representing the ratio of the rotational speed of the tool component to the rotational speed of the motor. The controller monitors this ratio signal and adjusts the motor's operation based on detected changes. Specifically, the controller activates the motor in one of two rotational directions—either the initial direction or the opposite direction—in response to a change in the first ratio signal. This adjustment helps maintain optimal tool performance, such as preventing jamming or improving cutting efficiency. The system may also include additional sensors or feedback mechanisms to further refine motor control. The invention is particularly useful in power tools where precise speed regulation and directional control are critical, such as drills, saws, or grinders. The controller's ability to dynamically respond to changes in the rotational speed ratio ensures consistent and safe operation under varying load conditions.
9. A method of operating a power tool, the method comprising: pressing a trigger in a first direction; moving a conductor over an inductive sensor that is configured as a coil trace having a proximal end located proximate the trigger and a distal end, the distal end having a different winding density than the proximal end, wherein the movement of the conductor over the inductive sensor includes moving the conductor away from the proximal end of the inductive sensor and towards the distal end of the inductive sensor; outputting a signal from the inductive sensor; and accelerating a rotational speed of a motor as the conductor is moved from the proximal end of the inductive sensor towards the distal end.
This invention relates to power tool control systems, specifically addressing the challenge of providing precise and responsive speed control in response to trigger actuation. The method involves a power tool with a trigger and an inductive sensor configured as a coil trace. The coil trace has a proximal end near the trigger and a distal end, with the distal end featuring a different winding density than the proximal end. When the trigger is pressed in a first direction, a conductor moves over the inductive sensor, transitioning from the proximal end toward the distal end. As the conductor moves, the inductive sensor outputs a signal corresponding to its position along the coil trace. The motor's rotational speed is then accelerated proportionally to the conductor's movement toward the distal end. The varying winding density ensures that the sensor's output accurately reflects the trigger's position, enabling smooth and controlled motor acceleration. This design improves responsiveness and precision in power tool speed regulation compared to traditional mechanical or optical sensors.
10. The method of claim 9 , further comprising: releasing the trigger; biasing the trigger in a second direction that is opposite the first direction; moving the conductor away from the distal end of the inductive sensor and towards the proximal end of the inductive sensor; and decelerating the rotational speed of the motor as the conductor is moved from the distal end of the inductive sensor to towards the proximal end.
This invention relates to a method for controlling a motor in an inductive sensing system, addressing the challenge of precisely regulating motor speed based on the position of a conductive element relative to an inductive sensor. The system includes a motor, a trigger mechanism, and an inductive sensor with proximal and distal ends. The method involves actuating the trigger to move the conductive element toward the distal end of the inductive sensor, accelerating the motor's rotational speed as the element approaches this position. Upon releasing the trigger, the element is biased in the opposite direction, moving toward the proximal end of the sensor. As the element transitions from the distal to the proximal end, the motor's speed is gradually decelerated. This controlled deceleration ensures smooth and precise motor operation, particularly useful in applications requiring positional feedback and speed regulation, such as robotic systems or automated machinery. The inductive sensor detects the element's position, providing real-time data to adjust motor speed accordingly. The biasing mechanism ensures consistent return movement, enhancing system reliability and accuracy.
11. The method of claim 9 , wherein the step of accelerating the rotational speed of the motor as the conductor is moved from the proximal end of the inductive sensor towards the distal end includes accelerating the rotational speed of the electric motor in a first rotational direction.
This invention relates to a system for controlling the rotational speed of an electric motor based on the position of a conductor relative to an inductive sensor. The technology addresses the challenge of dynamically adjusting motor speed in response to real-time positional feedback, which is critical in applications requiring precise control, such as automated manufacturing, robotics, or conveyor systems. The system includes an inductive sensor positioned along a path where a conductive element moves. As the conductor transitions from a proximal to a distal position relative to the sensor, the motor's rotational speed is accelerated in a predefined direction. This acceleration is proportional to the conductor's movement, ensuring smooth and responsive adjustments. The inductive sensor detects changes in the conductor's position, generating signals that trigger the motor's speed modulation. The motor's rotational direction is fixed during this acceleration phase, preventing erratic behavior and maintaining system stability. The method ensures that the motor's speed increases predictably as the conductor moves, enhancing control accuracy. This approach is particularly useful in applications where positional feedback must directly influence motor dynamics, such as in automated assembly lines or precision motion systems. The system's design minimizes latency between sensor input and motor response, improving overall efficiency and reliability.
12. The method of claim 11 , wherein pressing the trigger in the first direction comprises pivoting the trigger in a first pivotal direction, wherein the conductor is a first conductor and the inductive sensor is a first inductive sensor, and wherein the method further comprises: pivoting the trigger in a second pivotal direction that is opposite the first pivotal direction; moving a second conductor over a second inductive sensor; outputting a second signal from the second inductive sensor; and activating the electric motor in a second rotational direction that is different than the first rotational direction based on the second signal.
A method for controlling an electric motor using a trigger mechanism with inductive sensing involves detecting trigger movement in multiple directions to adjust motor rotation. The system includes a trigger that pivots in at least two opposite directions, a first inductive sensor paired with a first conductor, and a second inductive sensor paired with a second conductor. When the trigger is pressed in a first direction, it pivots in a first pivotal direction, moving the first conductor over the first inductive sensor. The sensor outputs a first signal, which activates the electric motor in a first rotational direction. Conversely, when the trigger is pressed in the opposite direction, it pivots in a second pivotal direction, moving the second conductor over the second inductive sensor. The second sensor outputs a second signal, activating the motor in a second rotational direction opposite to the first. This bidirectional control allows precise motor direction adjustment based on trigger movement, improving responsiveness and accuracy in applications requiring variable motor control. The inductive sensing ensures reliable detection of trigger position, enhancing system robustness.
13. A trigger assembly for use with a power tool having an electric motor, the trigger assembly comprising: a trigger; a conductor coupled for movement with the trigger; and a printed circuit board having an inductive sensor thereon responsive to relative movement between the conductor and the inductive sensor caused by movement of the trigger, wherein an output of the inductive sensor is used to activate the electric motor, and wherein the inductive sensor is a coil trace having a proximal end located proximate the trigger and a distal end, and wherein the distal end has a different winding density than the proximal end.
This invention relates to a trigger assembly for power tools with electric motors, addressing the need for precise and reliable motor activation through trigger movement. The assembly includes a trigger, a conductor mechanically linked to the trigger, and a printed circuit board (PCB) with an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor detects relative movement between the conductor and the sensor, converting trigger motion into an electrical signal to activate the motor. The sensor is a coil trace with a proximal end near the trigger and a distal end, where the distal end has a different winding density than the proximal end. This variable winding density allows for adjustable sensitivity or signal strength across the trigger's range of motion, improving control and responsiveness. The conductor moves in response to trigger actuation, altering the inductive coupling between the conductor and the coil trace, which the sensor converts into a control signal for the motor. This design enhances precision in motor activation, particularly in tools requiring fine control, such as drills or saws, by optimizing the sensor's response to trigger movement. The inductive sensor's configuration ensures robust performance while minimizing mechanical wear compared to traditional contact-based switches.
14. The trigger assembly of claim 13 , wherein, in response to the conductor moving away from the proximal end of the inductive sensor and towards the distal end, a rotational speed of the motor is accelerated, and wherein in response to the conductor moving away from the distal end of the inductive sensor and towards the proximal end, the rotational speed of the motor is decelerated.
This invention relates to a trigger assembly for controlling the rotational speed of a motor in a power tool or similar device. The assembly includes an inductive sensor positioned along a conductor, which detects the position of the conductor relative to the sensor. The conductor is movable between a proximal end and a distal end of the inductive sensor. When the conductor moves away from the proximal end and toward the distal end, the inductive sensor signals the motor to increase its rotational speed. Conversely, when the conductor moves away from the distal end and toward the proximal end, the inductive sensor signals the motor to decrease its rotational speed. This mechanism allows for variable speed control of the motor based on the position of the conductor relative to the inductive sensor. The system provides a responsive and adjustable speed control mechanism for power tools, enhancing user control and precision. The inductive sensor's ability to detect conductor position without physical contact ensures durability and reliability in industrial or high-use environments. The assembly may be integrated into handheld power tools, robotic systems, or other motor-driven devices requiring precise speed modulation.
15. The trigger assembly of claim 14 , further comprising a spring biasing the trigger toward a neutral position in which the conductor is closer to the proximal end than the distal end.
A trigger assembly for a medical device, such as a catheter or surgical instrument, includes a trigger mechanism that moves a conductor along a path between a proximal end and a distal end. The conductor is connected to a movable component, such as a cutting element or a tissue manipulation tool, allowing precise control of its position. The trigger assembly further includes a spring that biases the trigger toward a neutral position, where the conductor is positioned closer to the proximal end than the distal end. This design ensures that the movable component remains in a default or resting state when no force is applied to the trigger, improving safety and reducing unintended movement. The spring provides a consistent return force, allowing the user to adjust the position of the conductor with fine control. This mechanism is particularly useful in minimally invasive surgical procedures where precise and stable positioning of the movable component is critical. The trigger assembly may also include additional features, such as a locking mechanism or adjustable resistance, to enhance usability and performance. The spring-biased design helps maintain the conductor in a predictable position, reducing the risk of accidental activation or misalignment during operation.
16. The trigger assembly of claim 15 , wherein the coil trace is linear.
A trigger assembly for a mechanical or electromechanical device, such as a switch or sensor, includes a coil trace configured to generate a magnetic field when energized. The coil trace is arranged in a linear configuration, meaning it extends in a straight path without curves or bends. This linear design may improve manufacturing efficiency, reduce material waste, or enhance the uniformity of the magnetic field generated. The assembly may also include a housing to support the coil trace and other components, such as a movable actuator or a magnetic element, which interacts with the coil trace to activate or deactivate the device. The linear coil trace may be integrated into a printed circuit board (PCB) or a flexible substrate, depending on the application. The assembly is designed to provide reliable triggering in response to an input, such as a physical force or an electrical signal, while maintaining compact dimensions and consistent performance. The linear configuration of the coil trace distinguishes it from non-linear or coiled designs, potentially offering advantages in specific applications where straight-line magnetic field generation is preferred.
17. The trigger assembly of claim 15 , wherein the coil trace is curvilinear.
A trigger assembly for a mechanical or electromechanical device, such as a switch or actuator, includes a coil trace configured to generate a magnetic field when energized. The coil trace is designed to interact with a movable component, such as a plunger or armature, to control its movement. The assembly may include a housing to support the coil trace and other components, ensuring proper alignment and functionality. The coil trace is arranged in a curvilinear shape, which may optimize magnetic field distribution, reduce interference, or improve spatial efficiency within the assembly. The curvilinear design may also enhance the interaction between the coil and the movable component, improving responsiveness or reducing wear. The assembly may further include electrical contacts, springs, or other mechanisms to facilitate switching or actuation. The curvilinear coil trace may be integrated into a printed circuit board (PCB) or a flexible substrate, allowing for compact and precise manufacturing. The overall design aims to improve performance, reliability, or manufacturability of the trigger assembly in applications such as industrial controls, consumer electronics, or automotive systems.
18. The trigger assembly of claim 17 , wherein the conductor is a first conductor, the coil trace is a first coil trace, and the output is a first output used to activate the motor in a first rotational direction, and wherein the trigger assembly further comprises a second conductor coupled for movement with the trigger, and a second inductive sensor configured as a second coil trace on the printed circuit board having a proximal end located proximate the trigger and a distal end, wherein the distal end of the second coil trace has a different winding density than the proximal end of the second coil trace, wherein the second inductive sensor is responsive to relative movement between the second conductor and the second inductive sensor caused by movement of the trigger, and wherein a second output of the second inductive sensor is used to activate the motor in a second rotational direction that is different than the first rotational direction, wherein, in response to the second conductor moving away from the proximal end of the second coil trace and towards the distal end of the second coil trace, a rotational speed of the electric motor is accelerated, and wherein in response to the second conductor moving away from the distal end of the second coil trace and towards the proximal end of the second coil trace, the rotational speed of the motor is decelerated.
This invention relates to a trigger assembly for controlling an electric motor, particularly for adjusting rotational speed and direction. The assembly includes a trigger mechanism with at least two conductive elements and a printed circuit board (PCB) featuring inductive sensors. Each inductive sensor is configured as a coil trace with varying winding density along its length. The first inductive sensor generates an output signal to activate the motor in a first rotational direction, while the second inductive sensor generates a second output signal to activate the motor in a second, opposite rotational direction. As the trigger moves, the conductive elements interact with the coil traces, altering the inductive coupling and producing corresponding output signals. The winding density variation in the coil traces ensures that moving the trigger away from the proximal end of a coil trace accelerates the motor, while moving it toward the proximal end decelerates the motor. This design allows for precise bidirectional speed control using a single trigger mechanism, eliminating the need for separate forward and reverse triggers. The system is particularly useful in power tools or similar applications requiring variable speed and direction control.
19. A trigger assembly for use with a power tool having an electric motor, the trigger assembly comprising: a trigger; a conductor coupled for movement with the trigger; a printed circuit board having an inductive sensor thereon responsive to relative movement between the conductor and the inductive sensor caused by movement of the trigger, the inductive sensor being a coil trace having a first end and a second end that has a different coil density than the first end; and a spring biasing the trigger to a position in which the conductor is located in a neutral position between the first end and the second end, wherein, in response to the conductor moving away from the neutral position and towards the first end of the coil trace, the output of the inductive sensor is used to activate the motor in a first rotational direction and to accelerate a rotational speed of the motor, and wherein, in response to the conductor moving away from the neutral position and towards the second end of the coil trace, the output of the inductive sensor is used to activate the motor in an opposite, second rotational direction and to accelerate a rotational speed of the motor.
This invention relates to a trigger assembly for power tools with electric motors, addressing the need for precise bidirectional motor control via a single trigger mechanism. The assembly includes a trigger, a movable conductor, and a printed circuit board with an inductive sensor. The inductive sensor is a coil trace with varying coil density at its ends, allowing differential sensing of the conductor's position. A spring biases the trigger to a neutral position, where the conductor is centered between the coil trace's ends. When the trigger is moved toward one end of the coil trace, the inductive sensor detects the conductor's movement and activates the motor in a first rotational direction, increasing speed proportionally. Conversely, moving the trigger toward the opposite end activates the motor in the reverse direction with proportional acceleration. The variable coil density enhances sensitivity and resolution, enabling fine control over motor direction and speed from a single trigger input. This design simplifies user operation while improving responsiveness and precision in power tool applications.
20. A power tool comprising: an electric motor; a controller in electrical communication with the motor to activate and deactivate the motor; a trigger; a first conductor coupled for movement with the trigger; a second conductor coupled for movement with the trigger; and a printed circuit board including a first inductive sensor thereon responsive to relative movement between the first conductor and the first inductive sensor caused by movement of the trigger, and a second inductive sensor thereon responsive to relative movement between the second conductor and the second inductive sensor caused by movement of the trigger, wherein a first output of the first inductive sensor is detected by the controller, which in response activates or deactivates the electric motor, and wherein a second output of the second inductive sensor is detected by the controller, which in response activates or deactivates the electric motor.
This invention relates to power tools with improved trigger-based motor control. The problem addressed is the need for reliable and precise activation and deactivation of an electric motor in response to trigger movement, ensuring safety and responsiveness. The power tool includes an electric motor and a controller that regulates the motor's operation. A trigger is mechanically linked to two conductors, which move in response to trigger actuation. A printed circuit board houses two inductive sensors. The first inductive sensor detects relative movement between the first conductor and itself, generating a first output signal. The second inductive sensor detects relative movement between the second conductor and itself, producing a second output signal. Both signals are sent to the controller, which uses them to activate or deactivate the motor. This dual-sensor design enhances reliability by providing redundant control inputs, reducing the risk of false activations or failures. The system ensures precise motor control based on trigger movement, improving user safety and tool performance.
21. The power tool of claim 20 , wherein the first output of the first inductive sensor is detected by the controller, which in response activates the electric motor in a first rotational direction, and wherein the second output of the second inductive sensor is detected by the controller, which in response activates the electric motor in a second rotational direction that is different than the first rotational direction.
A power tool includes a controller and at least two inductive sensors positioned to detect the presence or movement of a tool accessory. The first inductive sensor generates a first output signal when the tool accessory is in a first position, and the second inductive sensor generates a second output signal when the tool accessory is in a second position. The controller receives these signals and activates an electric motor in response. When the first output signal is detected, the controller activates the motor in a first rotational direction. When the second output signal is detected, the controller activates the motor in a second rotational direction, opposite to the first. This bidirectional control allows the tool to automatically adjust its operation based on the position or movement of the accessory, improving usability and efficiency. The inductive sensors may be positioned to detect different states of the accessory, such as engagement or disengagement, and the controller processes these signals to determine the appropriate motor direction. The system ensures precise and responsive motor control without manual input, enhancing the tool's functionality in applications requiring bidirectional operation.
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September 25, 2017
November 26, 2019
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